Putin envoy hints Ukraine war talks nearing diplomatic formula

Kirill Dmitriev, a special envoy to President Vladimir Putin, said in Washington that Russia, the United States and Ukraine are edging toward a diplomatic formula to end the war. He declined to spell out terms but signaled that recent exchanges have narrowed gaps after a planned Trump–Putin summit was put on hold. The envoy’s comments came as the United States tightened sanctions on major Russian oil firms, and European partners weighed proposals that would freeze front lines while talks continue. Dmitriev suggested that Kyiv’s willingness to discuss arrangements along current battle lines represented movement, though he acknowledged that the most difficult questions remain unresolved. US officials have kept open channels with Moscow even as they escalate economic pressure. Dmitriev said the dialogue would continue and emphasized that any agreement would need to respect Russia’s stated interests. The war, launched by Moscow in 2022, has ground on despite multiple mediation efforts.